Worst Ever Childminding Experience
We had initially arranged for Tina to look after our two children; a 1.5-year-old and a 5-year-old. The plan was for our older son to attend for a month, while the younger would continue for the foreseeable future. We paid a four-week deposit along with the first month’s fees in advance, with the understanding that this would be offset during the notice period at the end.
Unfortunately, things didn’t feel right from the start. Our children were never happy; either when being dropped off in the morning or returning home. There were concerning signs: simple things like not buttoning the vest after changing nappies, and always seeming rushed at pickup, even though the time had been agreed in advance.
Despite these issues, we tried to remain patient and continued for a month. However, it became clear that our younger child wasn’t settling well, so we decided to move him to a new setting and gave the required four-week notice.
Tina had previously mentioned she might go on holiday and that her daughter (also a childminder) could cover. Later, she told us her daughter was unavailable. Despite not providing any care during her holiday, she still invoiced us for half pay for that period. When we raised concerns, pointing out that both the written email and contract did not support her claim; she insisted it was a misunderstanding and said she would calculate everything once back from holiday.
Our notice period began a week before her holiday. After she returned, our child was sick, which we informed her and didn’t attend for one week. The following week, when we tried to drop him off, Tina didn’t answer the door. later said she didn’t know we were coming; even though it was still within the agreed notice period.
Given the disruption and the fact that our child was already settled happily elsewhere, we decided not to continue and asked for a refund of the extra week we had paid beyond the notice period. She again said she would calculate and get back to us; but it’s now been almost a month, and she has not responded to any of our messages or calls.
Overall, this has been a disappointing and unprofessional experience. We would not recommend Tina to other parents.
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Response from Butterfly ChildCare
Responded
I’m sorry to hear that you were unhappy with your experience. I always aim to maintain clear communication and a high standard of professionalism with all families.
During your time with my setting, there were several occasions where arrival and collection times did not align with our agreed schedule, which made it difficult to maintain consistency for the children and plan the day effectively. As explained, extended handovers or discussions needed to take place during morning drop-off, due to other professional commitments. I had also extended my working day to accommodate a 6:00 pm finish, beyond my usual 5:00 pm hours.
On one occasion, your children returned after illness without prior notice, despite plans for an outing that morning. Had I been informed in advance, arrangements could have been made. Similarly, while I had indicated that my daughter could provide care during my holiday if required, I did not receive any communication requesting this.
You had previously stated that a friend would be caring for your child, so I was surprised to receive a message about a potential negative review regarding a refund before I had the opportunity to respond. I returned your call promptly, but they were not answered.
Throughout their time at my setting, both of your children were well-cared for and settled, with only the brief, expected upset at handover from your younger child, which is typical for their age.
I take pride in providing a caring and professional childcare environment and always aim to resolve matters directly and respectfully.
